In January 2020, I contemplated a change to myself as I loathed how I looked and parts of my life. I was recommended Patrick by a friend and made an appointment that I had avoided for many years. I also got myself a great psychiatrist and started work on my head. In July last year, I went into the hospital and had the lap band out and a gastric bypass done and as a result, am 35kg down.

I only told a few people as I didn’t want to be judged. Eating disorders are very real and I was a comfort eater who had already had a heart attack.

It has not been an easy journey that is for sure, a couple of hospital visits due to too much stomach acid which now seems to be under control. This is what I wanted and I am now learning to like myself, still a long way to go but with great support, I think I have this!

Best decision and no regrets!

I met a lady who recently had surgery with Patrick and she spoke highly of him. She also had a failed lap band removed and suggested I go and see him.

I had a lap band in 2007 lost 8 kilos and had a heart attack in 2008. My band never worked after that. I decided after my visit with Patrick that I would only tell my close friends and family as people judge and are negative. I also got a psychologist to help me as I wanted to succeed.

Allow yourself time to heal, don’t rush back to work if you can help it. Don’t listen to others' negativity and if you have any concerns go back to Patrick and his team.

I always tell people it was the best thing I did, I am at a good weight now and I am healthy. Do it for the right reasons, research it, listen to your dietician and get a psychologist!